Taking kids along on a vacation can be rewarding, but it also limits where you can stay and what you can do. Children aren’t allowed at some exclusive locations, so luxury seekers may have problems finding accommodations that are both high end and kid friendly. And finding entertainment option for kids while mom and dad enjoy a gourmet meal or spa treatment can be a new challenge altogether. Luckily, there are spa resorts available to offer a solution to family traveling problems. At resorts, enough activities exist to keep the whole family entertained.
Spa resorts have popped up everywhere in recent years, so there’s more than likely one near your next vacation spot. These kinds of establishments are unique within the spa world because the spa does not take center stage at most locations. Instead, there are multiple amenities available, all of which are given importance in the resort. In fact, at very large resorts, the spa may be tucked away in a separate building far from the rest of the action.
There are a wide variety of non-spa entertainment options offered at resorts, and what’s available really depends on where you go. At a beach getaway, you might find multiple pools, a salon, and a few seafood restaurants in addition to the resort’s spa. A mountain retreat may provide horseback riding services or ski shuttles. Many resorts include golf courses and tennis courts as well. Some of the biggest destinations have a casino on site too.
With so many entertainment options available at spa resorts, there’s something to keep everyone happy for the duration of your trip. And when you’re traveling with children, the broad array of options can be a lifesaver. There’s no chance your kids will get bored when they have many activities to choose from. Most spa resorts allow children to stay—some even cater to them—so you won’t feel out of place if you bring your kids along. And with a multitude of choices, one of you adults can hit the pool with the kids while the other goes to spa—perfect!
At many spa resorts, there are special kids clubs designed to keep children happy while parents enjoy more grown up activities, like golf or the spa. These kids clubs are often staffed by trained instructors who know how to interact with children of all ages. Sometimes, kids will go on mini trips of their own within these club environments, perhaps exploring the property’s gardens or going to see a movie in town. Other times, kids clubs remain in a few rooms in the resort building. Either way, you can be sure your kids will be safe in the in-house childcare facilities. They’ll have a great time playing with other children too.
Most resorts contain an array of dining options. Some restaurants are appropriate for families, but others may be better for adults only. You can choose the options that are right for you and your family. Maybe you’d like to eat at family restaurants during most of your stay, but then drop the kids off at the children’s zone for a romantic dinner for two one night. It’s up to you, but with the many options of a resort spa, you won’t be left wondering what to do with your kids.
Of course, not all spa resorts are child appropriate. While most resorts make some effort to accommodate children, some request the children not be present. Resorts that say no to kids are usually more exclusive; they may be located in serene, faraway locations or could only provide adult activities, like casinos, golf, and spas. If you’re unsure about a resort’s attitude toward kids, call the front desk and ask. It’s much better to find out in advance that your children won’t be welcome than to show up and be told then.
Remember that even if a resort allows kids, its spa will not. Most spas forbid children from entering the facilities. There are some exceptions, but in general, no one under 14 can accompany a parent to a spa treatment. So don’t try to bring your two-year-old child along with you to a massage; you will likely be asked to leave. If you want to take advantage of the resort’s spa on a trip with children, plan to exchange time with your spouse. One of you can entertain the kids while the other get a treatment and vice versa. If trading off childcare duties doesn’t sound appealing to you, then you might want to leave the kids at home or rethink a spa vacation until your kids are old enough to entertain themselves.
A resort spa can be a perfect family getaway location, especially if you want to soak in a bit of luxury on your trip. With many entertainment options, both kids and adults will find something to satisfy them. So if you think luxury and children don’t mix, book a resort spa vacation and see for yourself—at resort spas, these two things blend beautifully.
